.18 Aero Engine

Fliers have a saying: "There's no replacement for displacement." Airplanes need torque to spin their props, and torque (even more than horsepower) is a function of displacement. But increasing displacement means more weight, and weight is the enemy of efficient airplane design. So what is an engine designer to do? K&B's solution is to produce an engine that is the size (and weight) of a common .12 to .15ci engine but with a full .18ci of displacement. The

mounts fit most .12 to .15 applications, and the .18 Aero weighs just 6.05 ounces (7.95 ounces with the included muffler). That's at least a 20-percent gain in displacement with no gain in wing loading or added bulk. The operating range is 2,500 to 19,000rpm on 5- to 15percent-nitro fuel, and the crank is supported by double ball bearings. The street price for this muscular little engine is right around $80, including the standard muffler.

K&B Model Products Inc., 1630 S. California Ave., Monrovia, CA 91016; (626) 359-9527; fax (626) 301-0298; www.modelengine.com.